Dance Umbrella is a teacher run non-profit society specializing in dance classes for students of all ages in a variety of genres. We strive to provide a place of belonging for youth of all ages and abilities. The Dance Umbrella is a space for dancers to build confidence, create connections and feel safe to explore and express themselves.
Our Classes
Dance with me
Dance with me classes are for tiny dancers ages 1-5 and their enthusiastic grownups. We sing songs, dance with scarves, read stories and jump in imaginary puddles. These classes introduce the structure of a dance class with a focus on holding space for you and your tiny dancer to connect and play.
Creative Dance
Creative Dance for 3-4yrs engages children through the use of their imagination while introducing them to class structure, taking turns, waiting (it’s not easy)! And basic dance vocabulary. We tap into developmentally appropriate gross motor skills like galloping, skipping, leaping, balancing and so much more. This is a class for your dancer to begin their independence and gain confidence in a safe and encouraging environment.
Ballet
In our non-syllabus ballet classes, students are taught the fundamentals of ballet technique appropriate for their age and experience in an atmosphere of encouragement, discipline and warmth. Emphasis is on correct body placement, building a strong foundation for the execution of turns and jumps, and cultivating a love for this beautiful and challenging art form.
Tap
Our Tap classes introduce students to the fundamentals of tap as well as its rich history. Dancers will learn drills, fundamental music theory, improv techniques and choreography in a fun and encouraging environment. Our Tap classes focus heavily on musicality as the foundation for technique.
Grooves/Choreography
Each Grooves/Choreography class is customized to the student’s ages and abilities. Exploring different street styles/techniques and cultivating a love of each style and the music. These classes will Incorporate lessons on street dance history to encourage an appreciation and respect for the many styles and their deep cultural roots. Some of the many styles we will explore are Hip Hop, Breaking, House and contemporary as well as developing each dancers ability to express themselves through freestyle.
Contemporary
Our contemporary classes incorporate techniques from many different genres of dance with an emphasis on quality of movement and expression. Dancers will learn principles of floor work, improv techniques and lots of fun choreography.
NEW THIS SEASON!
Beyond Dance
Beyond Dance is a bi-weekly group for our Dancers to deepen their connection to each other and themselves. We will discuss various topics from mental health, body positivity, self care, friendship and of course Dance. Facilitated by our caring group of instructors in the hopes that this can grow and becomes a peer project. This group provides a place for dancers to look beyond their dance training and connect with each other in real life about all things that matter most to them.
Freestyle/Choreography Lab
This year we are excited to offer a workshop style lab for dancers 12yrs and up who want to explore improvisation, freestyle and the wonderful world of creating your own choreography in whatever style of dance they choose. This class will introduce dancers to many different forms of guided improv/freestyle and creative processes to create their own pieces.
“My daughter has danced with Dance Umbrella for the past 14 years. Over the years, she wanted to add more classes and try different dance styles. My daughter now takes every class she can with Dance Umbrella, and persuaded her cousins to join too. The instructors are fun and skilled in their dance styles, as well as being mentors to my daughter in her career and pursuit of professional dance. There are extra opportunities to attend guest workshops and out of town events. Dance Umbrella offers more than just the classes and techniques, it offers a connection to the music, the art form, the other dancers and the community. We love Dance Umbrella. “
We Believe
Dance is for everyone!
In Body positivity
We are a family, connected through movement.
Kindness above all else
Dance = Joy!
